| There was a time when the riding helmet was less a | | | | is vital that you can actually try a helmet on just in |
| safety feature and more a fashion statement. Not so | | | | case you messed up the measuring or misread the |
| these days. Amongst other things it is vitally | | | | size. You can always try a helmet on in a shop and |
| important to ensure a correct fit or the safety | | | | then pop home and order online and maybe get a |
| features of a modern helmet may simply not work. | | | | better price. |
| These simple guidelines will help ensure that you get | | | | Testing |
| the best fit possible | | | | With the helmet on your head, try rocking your |
| Measuring | | | | head, does it move too much or does it feel too |
| To measure the rider's head use a measuring tape | | | | tight? If so try a size either side of the one you |
| placed around the circumference of the head, across | | | | have to see if it is a better fit. Try adjusting the |
| the forehead and above the ears. Make sure that | | | | lining, it may have moved in the shell. When the |
| your measurement is taken with the tape neither too | | | | helmet feels just right, attach and adjust the |
| loose or too tight of you will not get a correct fit. | | | | chin-strap. Again, make sure that everything fits |
| Sizing | | | | comfortably. The last thing you want is for the |
| Using the measurement that you just took, consult a | | | | helmet to feel awkward when you are on your |
| sizing chart (readily available on the web) and find the | | | | horse. The shopkeeper is likely to be expert, use |
| corresponding size on the chart. Helmets can have | | | | them, ask their advice. |
| different sizing methods used on the label and | | | | Fashion Statement |
| packaging so make sure you note down both the | | | | When you are happy that the helmet fits right and |
| measurement you took and the hat size from the | | | | feels right, you can tackle the fashion side of things. |
| chart, you may need either or both. | | | | Helmet covers come in a myriad of colours so knock |
| Shopping | | | | yourself out, no-one said that you can't be safe and |
| Armed with your sizes and measurements, head for | | | | look great! |
| a shop. If this is a fitting for a first time rider then it | | | | Enjoy your new helmet! |